Cough is a common symptom of respiratory infections or allergies that affects all age groups, especially children. Although coughing is usually harmless, it can cause discomfort for your child and disturb their sleep.

Over-the-counter medications may be helpful, but they can cause unwanted side effects. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that can ease your child’s cough and promote healing without adverse effects. Here are ten effective natural remedies to help your child’s cough.

Honey

Honey is a natural cough suppressant that has been used for centuries. It works by coating the throat, reducing irritation, and promoting mucus production.

According to a study, honey was found to be more effective in reducing cough compared to over-the-counter cough medicine. You can give your child a teaspoon of honey before bedtime or mix it with warm water or tea.

Chicken soup

Chicken soup not only warms your child’s tummy but also helps ease a cough. It contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help clear congestion and soothe the throat.

Studies have shown that chicken soup has a mild anti-inflammatory effect that reduces the severity of cold symptoms. You can make homemade chicken soup or buy it from the store.

Steam

Inhaling steam is an effective home remedy for a dry or wet cough. The warm, moist air helps to loosen mucus and soothe the airways. You can create steam by filling a bowl with hot water, placing a towel over your child’s head and breathing deeply.

Adding essential oils such as eucalyptus or lavender can enhance the healing properties of steam.

Ginger

Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and antihistamine that can help relieve a cough. It contains a compound called gingerol, which has antibacterial properties that can help fight infections.

You can make ginger tea by boiling ginger root in water and adding honey for sweetness.

Saltwater gargle

A saltwater gargle can help ease a sore throat and minimize coughing. It works by reducing inflammation and killing bacteria. To prepare a saltwater gargle, mix half a teaspoon of salt with warm water and have your child gargle the solution.

Make sure that they do not swallow the solution.

Lemon

Lemon is a potent source of vitamin C and antioxidants that stimulate the immune system and fight infections. It also contains citric acid, a natural cough suppressant that helps to soothe the throat and reduce coughing.

You can make lemon tea by squeezing fresh lemon juice into a cup of warm water and adding a teaspoon of honey for sweetness.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that has been used in traditional medicine for years to treat respiratory illnesses and reduce inflammation. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help ease coughing.

You can add turmeric to warm milk or tea and sweeten with honey.

Marshmallow root

Marshmallow root contains a substance called mucilage that coats and soothes the throat, reducing coughing. It also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help fight infections.

You can make marshmallow root tea by boiling the root in water and straining the liquid. Adding honey or lemon can enhance the taste.

Cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper is a natural cough suppressant that works by numbing the nerves in the throat that are responsible for coughing. It contains a compound called capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

You can prepare a cayenne pepper tea by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to warm water and honey.

Vapor rub

Vapor rub contains a blend of essential oils such as eucalyptus, menthol, and camphor that help ease congestion and coughing. It works by stimulating the nerve endings in the nasal passages, which promotes airflow and reduces coughing.

You can massage a small amount of vapor rub on your child’s chest before bedtime.

Conclusion

These natural remedies have been found to be effective in easing a child’s cough and promoting healing.

Although they are generally safe, it is recommended to consult with your child’s pediatrician before administering any home remedies, especially if your child has an underlying medical condition. Besides, prevention is always the best remedy, so ensure that you keep your child hydrated, maintain good hygiene practices, and encourage healthy eating habits to boost their immune system.